In a powerful speech at the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) convention in Las Vegas, Joe Biden renewed his demand for Congress to ban assault rifles, citing the recent failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Trump's life was narrowly spared when a gunman opened fire on him during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, grazing his ear with a bullet.

During his first appearance on the campaign trail since the attack, Biden expressed his concern over the rising political division and called for unity while decrying the use of assault rifles. He specifically mentioned the AR-15, the weapon used in the recent shooting, and highlighted its role in numerous other tragic incidents, including the deaths of innocent children.

Biden's determination to address gun violence is nothing new, as he played a pivotal role in passing the assault weapons ban in 1994, which unfortunately expired in 2004. The president emphasized his commitment by stating, "I've done it before, I'll do it again," referencing his track record in gun control legislation.

In 2022, during his first term as president, Biden signed a significant gun safety legislation that included enhanced background checks for gun buyers and other protections. However, his efforts to reinstate an assault weapons ban have faced staunch opposition from Republicans.

Meanwhile, the Republican National Convention (RNC) continued with its second day, featuring prominent speakers such as Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis rallying behind Trump. At a side event hosted by the US Concealed Carry Association, a senior adviser to the Trump campaign assured attendees that the former president would protect gun rights by appointing pro-gun judges if elected in November.

Trump himself has made it clear that he intends to dismantle all of Biden's new gun regulations should he return to office. This stance remains unchanged even in light of the recent assassination attempt.

Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, who managed to fire at Trump from a rooftop located 130m (426ft) away from the campaign rally site. The Secret Service is conducting an independent review of their handling of the incident, while Republican leaders in Congress have called for their own investigation.

This renewed push for gun control comes amid a deeply divided political landscape. Biden's call to action seeks to address the escalating issue of gun violence and aims to prevent future tragic events like the attempt on Trump's life.